🕤️ How to Tell the Difference Between Normal and Concerning Speech Delay?
Speech delay is one of the most common concerns among parents, but not every delay indicates a problem. There is a difference between a normal delay that improves with time and a clinical delay that requires professional intervention.
✨ Normal Speech Delay:
1️⃣ Some children simply need more time before they begin saying their first words.
2️⃣ The child may use gestures or facial expressions to communicate before starting to speak.
3️⃣ There is gradual improvement with age, especially after the age of two.
❌ Concerning (Clinical) Speech Delay:
1️⃣ Lack of attempts to imitate sounds or words.
2️⃣ Weak eye contact with others.
3️⃣ Not saying clear words by the age of 2.5 to 3 years.
4️⃣ Difficulty understanding simple instructions.
💡 When Should You See a Specialist?
If you notice one or more of the signs above, it’s recommended to consult a speech therapist for evaluation and early intervention—every month of delay may affect a child’s language development.
💙 In Summary:
Understanding speech development stages helps parents determine the right time to seek help. At Mawaheba Center, we believe that early assessment is the key to a successful language journey and healthy communication development.
